Všeobecný penzijní ústav, Cultural monument in New Town, Prague, Czech Republic.
The Všeobecný penzijní ústav is an office building in Prague with a distinctive cross-shaped layout, featuring an eleven-story central core flanked by seven-story wings on both sides. The structure displays a clear geometric organization with functional design and extensive glazed surfaces on its facade.
The structure was completed in 1914 by architects Jan Kotěra and Josef Zasche, introducing modern design principles to Prague's urban landscape. It represented an important step in how advanced construction methods were applied in Czechoslovakia at that time.
The building reflects early 1900s Czech architectural thinking through its adoption of functionalist design, blending practical office spaces with modern artistic approaches of that era.
The building is located in the New Town district and functions as an active office space while also serving as a protected cultural monument. Visitors should note that as a working office, interior access may be restricted during business hours.
The building was the first office structure in Czechoslovakia to be equipped with modern air conditioning systems based on American technology during its construction. This technical innovation was remarkable for the early 1900s and ranked among Europe's most advanced systems of that period.
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